The National Capital
It was a quick crossing of New Brunswick and Quebec because we had done it several times in the past (you can take a look at my previous articles on these beautiful destinations), but during a stop to visit family and friends in Laval, we got stuck as our Jeep was stolen and luckily recovered, but with minor damages that needed to be repaired before we could really begin our journey.
So we decided to leave immediately as soon as we picked up the Jeep, even though it was a Thursday at 5 p.m.! So we find ourselves, for our first night of Boondocking of this trip, in the parking lot of the Casino Lac Leamy in Gatineau. Usually, casinos are more than happy to let you use their huge parking lot, because you might end up spending money to gamble! We are not players, but we had planned to have a good meal to celebrate the real beginning of our journey until we realized that the staff were on strike… what a disappointment!!!
A beautiful bike ride
The next morning we took the bikes to explore Ottawa and I have to admit it’s the best way to do it! There’s cycle paths everywhere, you don’t have to worry about parking and you can cover many more kilometers than walking!
Ottawa, Canada’s national capital is a beautiful city surrounded by the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal. There are plenty of green spaces, heritage buildings, museums of all kind to satisfy all interests and shops (markets and shopping centres), including the famous By Market which brings together a host of local artisans and producers. Something to keep you busy for a few days.
We liked looking at the locks and it really gave us the idea of taking a cruise on the canals one of these days…
We also discovered another part of the city that was not previously known by us: Landsdowne Park, the Queen Elizabeth Promenade and the Arboretum. These pleasantly landscape green spaces are ideal for taking a breath of fresh air!
Bon voyage! Profitez-en bien!
J’adore Ottawa et le parc de la Gatineau!